Straddling the divide between artistic progression and NYC grit, Aesop Rock’s legions of fans are ready for his new album, None Shall Pass.

Created over 2 years the new album None Shall Pass, is a belly-busting slice of urban hip hop; each track simmers beneath the surface, like the violence that many of the tracks, although they may not directly mention, reflect.

Tracks are a mixed bag when it comes to the stories they tell: 39 Thieves tells the tale of high school mischief, The Harbor is Yours embodies the viewpoint of a children’s story whilst Fumes examines the ever too common story of relationships gone sour due to drug abuse.

It’s refreshing that Aesop forgoes the typical stance and braggadocio that’s ever present in underground and mainstream hip hop and there are some excellent samples used, plus some really terrific old school style scratching – a lesson to all hip hop wannabes – courtesy of DJ Big Whizz.

Dark beats, rapid-fire lyrics and excellent production levels are in place here to give fans of the down and dirty style of hip hop plenty to chew on. If you’re more of a mainstream fan of hip hop though, perhaps only occasionally dipping in to the likes of Dre and Jay-Z, then perhaps give this album a miss.

Listen to some of their latest tracks and get tour dates at: www.myspace.com/aesoprockwins